The OLMA Overview -- November 30, 2018
While it seems like mere minutes ago that I was welcoming you to November, here we are on the month's last day. I trust that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are looking forward to a fun and relaxing Christmas break. Before we get there, though, we have three weeks filled with academics, mid-terms and long-time OLMA traditions.

With the holidays just around the corner, it's important not to lose sight of our number one priority: academic excellence. Use your time well, ask for help if you need it and finish this semester strong.

Along the way, enjoy being part of OLMA's most treasured traditions. One of our favorite's, Advent Angels, began this week. Lockers are already looking great with many more yet to be decorated. Next week, we will celebrate Junior Ring Mass. This is a huge day for our entire school community we mark a tradition shared with generations of OLMA students. Ring Mass begins at 8:30 am on Thursday, December 6. All are welcome to attend.

We kick off the week of December 10 with the first of two blood drives managed by members of the Class of 2019. Please see the flyer posted below and sign up to donate if you're able. A single donation can save up to three lives. I can't think of a better time of year to do that.

In the meantime, stay warm, be safe and enjoy the blessings of the Christmas season with family and friends. -- Mrs. Coyle
Student Spotlight
Kelly Schwartz, Class of 2022
As Kelly was interviewing for this article, Christmas music suddenly began playing throughout the entire school. That's Mrs. Coyle's way of merrily letting everyone know that it's time to go to homeroom. "This just doesn't happen anywhere else," said Kelly. "I love it and all of the traditions that I've experienced so far." She's right smack in the middle of one right now as she finds ways of surprising her Advent Angel each day. "It's so much fun and a huge part of the sisterhood here," she said. "The sisterhood is definitely my favorite thing about OLMA."

As happy as she is now, Kelly wasn't always so sure about attending OLMA. "Most of the boys in my family went to the Prep, so OLMA was the logical choice for me," she said. "The problem was that I wasn't so sure how I was going to feel about the all-girls thing. Plus, I was coming from a public school. Once I shadowed, though, my mind was made up. I couldn't be happier and have made so many new friends. I'm also doing well in school and playing sports." Indeed she is as she hits the pool daily as part of the OLMA Swim team.

When asked what surprised her most about OLMA when she shadowed, Kelly said it was the fact that everyone asks questions in class. "In my school, even if someone didn't understand something that the teacher said, no one would dare ask a question," she said. "We were all too shy and afraid of what others would think. At OLMA, everyone asks questions. It's encouraged and no one judges you. I was also really happy to see how bubbly and welcoming everyone was and how friendly the teachers were. I knew it was where I wanted to be."

While it's a little early for Kelly to zero in on her plans for college and careers, she's pretty sure it will be something that involves math and science. "If I had to guess, I'd say that I might pursue a career as a Marine Biologist or Zoologist," she said. Kelly also enjoys art club with Mrs. Helms and talked about the photo she is currently transferring to canvas in tones of gray.

Kelly's advice to anyone considering OLMA is not to be afraid to shadow and not to worry at all about there being no boys "In just a few short months at OLMA, I've realized that I don't need boys here. In fact, I've never been more myself than I am now."

If you are in 7th or 8th grade and want to shadow Kelly, she'd be thrilled. Call and we'll set it up.
Advent Angels Get to Work
If you want to see the OLMA version of a shopping mall on Christmas Eve, you want to be here during the first week of Advent Angel season. Between 3-4 pm each afternoon, the locker halls are overflowing with girls who are wresting with rolls of wrapping paper, strings of lights, stockings, and more. Advent Angels take the responsibility of decorating their person's locker very seriously. Let's just say that they went over the top this year. Come on over and you'll see.
'Tis the Season to Give Blood
Bake Sale on Monday!
The OLMA Bake and Interact Clubs have joined forces to sponsor a festive, break-time bake sale on Monday, December 3. Everything is homemade and comes with a cup of hot cocoa for a $2 donation. Please be sure and bring a few dollars of cash with you as this can not be charged to your lunch account. Thank you!
'Tis the Season for SCRIP
Just two more order dates to go before Christmas! It's the best time of year to give and get back! SCRIP offers rebates galore, so please shop here before you head to the store. Thank you!
OLMA College Students Needed
The OLMA Guidance Department will be hosting a Villager Advice session scheduled for Friday, January 11. If you are currently attending college, we invite you to join us for a visit and for an informal meeting with our seniors about your transition to college and your experience so far. If you can make it, please email: mrs.szawlewicz@olmanj.org. Please gather up your buds and join us!
Upcoming Events

Bake Sale -- Break on Monday, December 3

Junior Ring Mass & Breakfas t -- Thursday, December 6

Pajama Day Fundraiser $5 for CHOP -- Friday, December 7


Class of 2023 Entrance Exam -- Saturday, December 8

Advent Angel Reveal Party and Trip to Nutcracker -- Friday, December 14

Study Day/NO School for Students -- Monday, December 17

Mid-Term Exams -- Tuesday, December 18 -- Thursday, December 20

We hope you enjoy the OLMA Overview. If you have questions or suggestions, please contact Mrs. Kinkade at 856.697.2008, ext. 140, or email her at: mrs.kinkade@olmanj.org